President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday visited Bayelsa State to commission four major legacy projects executed by the administration of Governor Douye Diri, with the governor describing the occasion as historic and a turning point in the state’s development trajector y. Speaking during the event, Governor Diri warmly welcomed the President to Bayelsa, popularly referred to as the “Glory of All Lands,” expressing appreciation for his presence despite a tight national schedule. He noted that the large turnout of residents reflected the people’s gratitude and confidence in the President’s leadership.
The governor credited the Federal Government’s policy reforms, particularly in the power sector, for enabling the state to deliver a 60-megawatt gas-fired independent power project, aimed at improving electricity supply and boosting economic activities.
Highlighting one of the landmark projects, Diri said the 630-metre Angiama-Oporoma Bridge—abandoned for over six decades—has now been completed, describing it as a major step in correcting historical neglect in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, one of Nigeria’s key oil-producing regions.
He explained that the bridge would significantly ease transportation challenges, benefiting over 60 communities across Southern Ijaw and parts of Brass Local Government Area, while also stimulating economic growth and enhancing connectivity.
The governor further noted that the President virtually commissioned the Bayelsa West segment of the state’s senatorial road projects, particularly the Sagbama–Ekeremor–Agge corridor, which connects several riverine communities and is expected to boost trade and accessibility across the region.
Diri emphasized that the road network would integrate previously isolated communities into the mainstream economy, improve living standards, and drive inclusive development across the state.
Also commissioned was a dualised road leading to the rapidly expanding New Yenagoa City, which the governor said would enhance urban mobility, open up new economic opportunities, and support the vision of a modern capital city.
He added that the newly inaugurated projects complement ongoing developments, including a 30,000-seat international stadium, a nine-storey state secretariat, and multiple road and bridge projects aimed at linking rural communities.
According to the governor, the Yenagoa/Oporoma/Ukubie, Nembe/Brass, and Sagbama/Ekeremor/Agge road projects form strategic senatorial corridors that terminate at the Atlantic Ocean, positioning Bayelsa to tap into the vast potentials of the blue economy.
Diri reiterated the state’s commitment to aligning with the Federal Government’s blue economy initiative, noting that Bayelsa had taken the lead by establishing a dedicated Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
He also acknowledged the collaboration between the state and the Federal Government, citing presidential support in securing waivers for the importation of power turbines and the approval of Phase Two of the Nembe/Brass Road project.
The governor, however, appealed for similar support for other ongoing road projects, including the Sagbama–Ekeremor–Agge and Yenagoa–Oporoma–Ukubie roads, and requested reimbursement for phases already executed by the state.
Diri concluded by reaffirming Bayelsa’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the Federal Government, expressing optimism that the projects would enhance connectivity, economic growth, and overall development in the state and beyond.